Daniel Farke could already be facing make-or-break period at Leeds United after new reveal

Daniel Farke has already spoken openly about the pressure he wants to operate under at Leeds United.

After successfully achieving Premier League survival after Leeds' return to the top-flight, the goal posts in terms of success will certainly be moving.

Speaking towards the end of last campaign, Farke spoke about how the initial objectives he set himself up taking the job had been achieved.

Farke has a 50 per cent win percentage as Leeds manager, and a promotion from the Championship on his Elland Road CV.

But, next term the demands to climb the table, especially if Leeds can make quality additions in the transfer market, will be exacerbated.

And a new reveal from Opta Analyst suggests that Farke may already be aware of a make-or-break period coming up for him at Leeds.

Leeds United opening fixtures difficulty revealed

Thursday was a day for Premier League fans across the country to mark in their calendars, as the 2026/27 fixtures were released.

And, shortly after, Opta released their index for the most difficult opening five games of the season.

Leeds are pretty much in the middle of the road in terms of perceived difficulty, with the Whites having the ninth most difficult opening.

Farke's men face Nottingham Forest (A), Brentford (H), Brighton (A), Newcastle United (H), and Crystal Palace (H) in their first five, with an opponent average rating of 91.7.

It suggests that the pressure Farke wants will be there immediately. If he gets Leeds off to a flier, his long-term prospects look pretty good.

But he will be aware more than anyone that if things don't go well, there will be little patience from the ambitious 49ers Enterprisers, and he could potentially find himself in the firing line early doors.

What are Leeds United's other key fixtures?

Leeds fans will be optimistic about their chances next season after an extremely strong end to the previous campaign.

There are plenty more games for Leeds to mark on their calendars, though of course with the caveat they could still be moved for TV.

Two to note immediately are the clashes with cross-Pennines rivals Manchester United, who visit Elland Road on 17 October and host the return fixture at Old Trafford on 15 May.

The festive period is always busy, and Leeds visit Aston Villa on Boxing Day before travelling to Hull City four days later, while they host Everton on 2 January.

Leeds' final game of the season sees them travel to face Palace at Selhurst Park on 30 May.